Because of their hardiness and low maintenance requirements, pothos (Epipremnum aureum) are popular for terrariums housing reptiles such as geckos.
So the question is, are pothos safe for geckos? In this post, I’ll talk about whether pothos are poisonous to geckos, along with precautions that should be taken to avoid poisoning.
A Sneak Peek at Pothos
Pothos, commonly known as Devil’s Ivy, is a common houseplant. This trailing plant is known for its heart-shaped leaves and ability to grow in various conditions. Pothos can tolerate low light, low humidity, and irregular watering. What else do you need? It is the perfect plant for all kinds of plant lovers. And this hardy quality of pothos makes it a good choice for terrariums. On the other hand, pothos also purify air, which helps create a healthy environment for geckos.
Are Pothos Toxic to Geckos?
Pothos are safe for geckos. Although it is considered toxic to pets like cats and dogs, it is not harmful to geckos.
Another reason is that geckos are insectivores and are unlikely to nibble on the plant. Even if they do, the small ingested quantities usually do not lead to severe reptile reactions.
Benefits of Pothos in Gecko Enclosures
Easy to care
Pothos are super easy to care for; they only need a little amount of light and occasional watering. This makes them an excellent match for gecko habitats. Pothos also don’t require too much humidity, so it becomes easy to maintain gecko-friendly moisture and temperature.
Natural Hides and Climbing Areas
The vines of the pothos plant also create natural hiding spots and places for your gecko to climb. Like crested geckos, geckos love exploring and hiding in plants; pothos make the place a lot like their natural environment.
Humidity Control
Pothos plants also help keep the humidity just right, which is essential for geckos. Their leaves hold onto water and add extra moisture to the air, creating a stable environment.
Attractive looks
Lastly, pothos make your gecko’s habitat look even better! The bright green leaves with rocks, wood, and other terrarium decorations look great.
Safety Measures
Even though pothos are generally safe for geckos, taking precautions is best. I recommend following the following precautions.
Keep an eye on the Pothos overgrowth
Pothos grow too fast, which can make the gecko’s enclosure overcrowded. It becomes difficult for the gecko to move. This can also make it hard to maintain proper humidity and temperature. So be sure to trim the pothos before they become too big.
Soil considerations
Geckos need safe, non-loose substrate. So, when potting pothos in a gecko’s enclosure, avoid using any material that may harm the gecko, such as commercial potting soil or fertilizers.
Monitoring the gecko
Reptiles do not usually eat plants. But to be on the safe side, it’s best to monitor your geckos after putting the pothos plant in its home.
Pothos is generally a safe and beneficial choice for gecko enclosures, providing a low-maintenance, visually appealing, and enriching environment. However, as with any plant, it’s important to introduce it cautiously and monitor your gecko’s behavior. With proper care and attention, pothos can enhance your gecko’s habitat without harming their health.
